Tom Fletcher, the United Nations’ top emergency relief coordinator, has warned that humanitarian crises are escalating faster than aid agencies can respond as violence spreads across multiple regions. Speaking to reporters in Geneva, he described the situation as a “moment of grave peril,” stressing that without additional international support, millions of vulnerable people could lose their lives. According to him, conflicts are triggering mass displacement and economic shocks that are deepening humanitarian needs worldwide.
The United Nations launched a $23 billion global humanitarian appeal in December aimed at assisting 87 million of the world’s most vulnerable people. However, the appeal remains significantly underfunded, with about two-thirds of the required resources still missing. Fletcher explained that the 87 million beneficiaries represent those in the most urgent need of help, even though the total number of people requiring humanitarian assistance globally is much higher.
He emphasized that more than $14 billion is still required to implement the current humanitarian response plan. Fletcher contrasted this gap with the enormous financial cost of ongoing conflicts, noting that the war in the Middle East alone is estimated to cost around $1 billion per day. He stressed that even a fraction of that amount directed toward humanitarian relief could help save millions of lives. Among the most urgent crises requiring support, he highlighted the humanitarian emergencies in Gaza and Sudan.
Fletcher also raised concerns about the wider global impact of disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime corridor responsible for transporting about 20 percent of the world’s oil. The closure of the route in early March has contributed to rising food, energy, and fertilizer prices worldwide, which could worsen humanitarian conditions. He warned that further escalation could threaten other supply routes and disrupt the delivery of essential humanitarian aid, particularly to regions such as sub-Saharan Africa.
Despite the mounting challenges, Fletcher stressed that the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure must remain a top priority for the international community. He also called on governments to safeguard humanitarian operations, noting that aid workers have recently been killed in conflicts in Sudan, Lebanon, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He warned that attacks on humanitarian staff are increasing and that civilians account for the vast majority of victims in drone strikes. Nevertheless, he reaffirmed that humanitarian organizations remain committed to their mission despite being overstretched, under-resourced, and facing growing risks in conflict zones.
